White Sand Beach (Haad Sai Khao) is one of the most popular and iconic beaches on Koh Chang, Thailand. It’s known for its stunning white sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.
Here’s everything you need to know about White Sand Beach:
Location:
White Sand Beach is situated on the west coast of Koh Chang. It’s located approximately 10 kilometers from the Ao Thammachat ferry terminal, which is the main entry point to the island. It will be hard to miss as it is the first major civilized area while driving down the west coast.
Natural Beauty:
The beach gets its name from the powdery white sand that stretches for about 2.5 kilometers along the shoreline. The sand is incredibly soft and perfect for sunbathing and beach games. The calm and shallow waters make it ideal for swimming and wading, and the sea typically has a stunning turquoise hue.
Accommodation:
White Sand Beach offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly bungalows, catering to all types of travelers. Many of these accommodations are situated along the beachfront, offering guests breathtaking views and easy access to the sea.
Dining and Entertainment:
The beach is lined with an array of restaurants, bars, and street vendors. Offering a wide range of dining options from traditional Thai cuisine to international dishes. In the evenings, you can enjoy live music, fire shows, and beach parties, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. One thing that you shouldn’t miss is the food market that opens in the evening.
Shopping and Amenities:
The nearby village has shops, markets, and convenience stores where you can purchase essentials and souvenirs. ATM machines are also available for cash withdrawal.
Water Sports and Activities:
Water sports enthusiasts will find opportunities for jet kayaking, and paddle boarding. There are no motorized watersports available on the island. There are several dive shops offering scuba diving and snorkeling trips to explore the island’s underwater beauty.
Island Exploration:
White Sand Beach serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the rest of Koh Chang. You can rent scooters or hire a taxi to visit nearby attractions, including waterfalls, viewpoints, and fishing villages.
Sunset Views:
The west-facing location of White Sand Beach makes it a perfect spot for enjoying spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand. Many visitors gather on the beach in the early evening to witness this natural beauty.
Peak Season:
The beach can get quite crowded during the high season. Which runs from November to April, so booking accommodations in advance is advisable if you plan to visit during this time.
White Sand Beach on Koh Chang offers a balance between natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a fantastic destination for both relaxation and entertainment. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the soft sands, explore the island, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife, this beach has something for everyone.
The Beach:
- Pristine White Sands: As its name suggests, White Sand Beach is renowned for its incredibly soft and powdery white sands that stretch for about 2.5 kilometers along the shoreline. The sand is fine and almost talcum-powder-like, making it a delight to walk on, play beach games, or simply relax in the sun.
- Clear Turquoise Waters: The beach is lapped by crystal-clear, shallow waters that gently deepen as you wade further into the sea. The vivid turquoise and blue colors of the water create a captivating contrast against the immaculate white sands.
- Palm Trees and Greenery: The beach is framed by lush, swaying palm trees and tropical greenery that provide natural shade and add to the overall tropical ambiance.
- Sunset Spectacles: Thanks to its west-facing location, White Sand Beach is celebrated for its breathtaking sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating a spectacular evening display.
- Beachfront Accommodations: Many beachfront accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly bungalows to upscale resorts, are scattered along the shoreline, offering guests direct access to the beach and uninterrupted views of the sea.
Activities and Atmosphere:
- Swimming and Water Sports: The calm and shallow waters near the shore make it ideal for swimming and wading. Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in activities like kayaking, and paddleboarding.
- Sunbathing and Relaxation: The soft sands, beach chairs, and tropical climate provide the perfect setting for sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply unwinding while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
- Dining and Entertainment: The beach is lined with a diverse array of restaurants, bars, and street vendors. You can enjoy anything from traditional Thai cuisine to international dishes. In the evenings, the beach comes alive with live music, fire shows, and beach parties, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
- Shopping and Amenities: The nearby village offers shops, markets, and convenience stores for purchasing essentials and souvenirs. ATMs are also available for cash withdrawal.
- Island Exploration: White Sand Beach is a great starting point for exploring the rest of Koh Chang. You can rent scooters, hire taxis, or join island tours to visit nearby attractions, including waterfalls, viewpoints, and fishing villages.